Shabbat Tzedek honors the life and work of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. - and more broadly, honors the civil rights movement. As Jews working toward a more just society, we know that the vital work of the civil rights movement is not complete, and Shabbat Tzedek represents an opportunity for

us to renew our commitment to this work.

2014 marked the 50h anniversary of the landmark Civil Rights Act of 1964, which outlawed many forms of discrimination and segregation and was drafted in part at the Religious Action Center of Reform Judaism. From protecting voting rights to criminal justice reform, from ensuring equal treatment for LGBT Americans, to affirming the rights of the disabled, there is still much work to be done.

We must begin to explore how our Jewish values can be brought bear to continue fighting for Civil Rights and social justice.

Next year, we hope to share learning and prayer over MLK weekend with another faith community in Davidson. Anyone interested in working towards such an relationship should contact Rabbi Shields.